Blake Annen is not among the golden boys on Mel Kiper's Big Board, but tight end Annen has been rising among former University of Cincinnati hopefuls for the 2014 NFL draft.

Annen spun heads at UC's recent pro day with a 40-yard dash time of 4.42 seconds, fastest among draft-eligible tight ends. That helped boost Annen from probable free agent to potential late-round material, according to CBSSports.com senior analyst Rob Rang of the NFLDraftScout.com website.

"Annen worked out for the Jets, who may view him as a late Day 3 option," Rang said. "Otherwise we don't see a Cincinnati player as draft-worthy."

The 6-foot-4, 247-pound Annen is from Upper Arlington High School near Columbus.

Annen had only 16 catches for 183 yards and two touchdowns last season, but UC did not throw much to its tight ends.

"It really doesn't matter whether I get drafted or I'm a free agent, all you need is that one team to like you and get into their camp," Annen said. "I think I have the ability to make a team."

Quarterback Brendon Kay is among former Bearcats likely to at least get free-agent looks. NFLDraftScout.com senior analyst Dane Brugler recently listed one player from each FBS school who probably won't be drafted but has a good chance of making an NFL roster as a free agent, and Kay was the UC player tabbed by Brugler.

"I'm hearing along the lines of late rounds or free agent," Kay said. "My agent has sent me some pre-draft analysis to prepare for free agency, ranking teams that would give me the best opportunity to make a team. We are expecting multiple offers if I reach free agency."

Linebacker Greg Blair and guards Sam Longo and Austen Bujnoch are among other former UC players considered late-round or free agent possibilities, from last year's 9-4 Bearcats team.

Also:

• Preston Brown, from Northwest High School and the University of Louisville, is rated the No. 4 inside linebacker and projected as a fourth-round pick by NFL DraftScout.com.

• Several other local high school products are considered late-round or free agent caliber, including Michigan State linebacker Denicos Allen (Hamilton HS), Bowling Green safety Jerry Gates (Middletown HS) and Ohio State guard Andrew Norwell (Anderson HS).

• Miami University is not projected to have any players drafted, after an 0-12 season.